Getting Started with High Chairs
Feeding a hungry baby isn't always a fun activity. Babies can be extremely messy and cranky while eating, but with the right high chair, the experience can become a lot more enjoyable for both yourself and your baby. When it comes to selecting a high chair, you may find yourself feeling overwhelmed with the dozens of different choices that are out there. They come in a wide range of styles, materials and with optional features. From the standard high chair to the hook-on high chair, each type offers its own advantages and benefits.
Different Types of High Chairs Available
Before buying a high chair, you should consider all of the different types of seats for your baby that are out there. While some high chairs are aimed at infants who have just began to sit up by themselves, others may be recommended for toddlers who simply need a little bit of help reaching the table.
Standard High Chair
- This is an "everyday" high chair with tray. It can typically be used as soon as the baby is able to sit up at around 6 months of age.
- Removable tray. Tray attaches directly to the high chair to serve as a table for the baby.
- Some models include a reclining ability for younger infants.
European-Style High Chair
- This type of high chair is typically tray-less so that it can be pulled up directly to the table.
- Includes a seat belt so that babies are unable to slide out.
- Accommodates children through their toddler years, as they have an adjustable seat and removable footrests.
Hook-On High Chair
- A compact and portable high chair seat option. Clips onto the dining table or dining chair so save space.
- Hook-on high chairs have specific weight limits that must not be exceeded for safety reasons.
- High chair seats that attach to dining chairs typically offer all of the same features of a standard high chair including a removable tray.
Booster Seat
- An ideal option for toddlers who have outgrown a regular high chair.
- The seat attaches to a regular dining chair to save space and for portability.
- Includes a three-point harness rather than a five-point harness like on most standard high chairs.
High Chair Features
Like the food that your baby eats, the features of high chairs can vary. This will depend on the type of high chair that you're purchasing as well as the specific model. Most high chairs include the following common features.
- Wheels. Most regular high chairs come complete with wheels. This makes it easy to roll the high chair from one place to another. Wheels lock in place for safety precautions.
- Safety Belt. Safety belts are included on all high chairs. Those that accommodate younger infants usually include a five-point harness while booster seats have three-point harnesses.
- Adjustability. The ability to adjust a high chair's height can help to extend its use. You may be able to adjust the high chair according to the height of your table or where you will be feeding your little one.
- Recline. This feature is ideal for younger babies that are still a bit shaky when sitting up on their own. This makes it easier for them to sit safely at the table.
Brands of High Chairs
There are many different manufacturers of high chairs out there that sell their products at major retail stores. Evenflo, Chicco and Graco are among some of the most popular high chair brands.
Tips When Shopping for High Chairs
These tips will help you when shopping for the perfect high chair.
- Check for certifications when purchasing a high chair. This includes the JPMA logo. JPMA works with the Consumer Products Safety Commission to develop safety standards for children's products.
- Pricier high chairs are not always better. Prices for a high chair can range anywhere from $20 to $500. You will pay more for the extra bells and whistles that may not always be necessary.
- Shop based on your needs rather than the recommendations of a sales associate. What may have worked for them may not be the best option for you.
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